Cycle 4 – Item 75
21 (Thu) March 2013
Daepae Samgyeopsal with Mixed Green Wraps
3.0
by me
at home
-Oksu, Seongdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea-
solo
Daepae Samgyeopsal is a cut of pork. It’s pork belly, sliced super thin, about 2 mm or so. The term “daepae” refers to a planer, a blade tool that smoothens wood by shaving the rough surface, which comes off in thin curly strips. When cooked, the meat quickly turns crispy, which is the whole point. For a time back in the 90s, restaurants serving daepae samgyeopsal were all the rage, but few such establishments remain these days. The cut can still be obtained from a butcher, by request if otherwise unavailable.
Because of the texture, daepae samgyeopsal is especially nice when wrapped in leafy greens. The crispiness of the meat pairs well with the soft vegetables, which also provide a fresh counterpoint to the fat. Conveniently, for this very purpose, markets often sell packages of mixed greens. Topped with a piece of kimchi for seasoning, or alternatively maybe a dollop of gochujang or ssamjang, it’s a powerful little parcel of wholesome goodness; add rice, and it’s a complete meal in every bite.
(See also GLOBAL FOOD GLOSSARY)
